Around 50 happy hens live in Jessica Hank’s backyard in Michigan, where they enjoy roaming the pristine property, clucking and pecking to their hearts’ content. But in one sense of the word, they’re anything but chicken.
A few weeks ago, as Hank arrived home, she noticed some commotion in her normally tranquil yard. The chickens were in a stir, having come face-to-face with a wild intruder who’d wandered in from the surrounding forest.
It was a curious bear — and the chickens were not pleased to have him visit. Rather than run away scared, however, the birds teamed up to drive him off.
“I was just in such awe of the entire scenario,” Hank told The Dodo.
She captured the moment on video:
“I was really just shocked that they ran the bear off!” Hank said, noting that it was a 100 percent female-led effort. “Those were the hens doing all the work as the roosters sat back and watched.”
The bear, spooked by the feisty birds, ran back into the forest. That was his first visit, and he hasn’t been seen again since.
For their valiant work in defense of the flock, Hank rewarded the hens with treats.
“They got extra snacks that night,” Hank said. “They are pretty spoiled.”
The bear left no damage in his wake, and it seems he’s gotten the message that the backyard is a no-go zone — all thanks to the feathered heroes who inhabit it.
“My chickens are pretty brave and hilarious!” Hank said. “They definitely keep life entertaining.”